MUMBAI: Aviation industry stakeholders should adopt greener technologies and sustainable operational practices, said Piyush Srivastava, Senior Economic Advisor, Ministry of Civil Aviation, speaking at the third edition of IndiAirport 2024 launched by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI).
The event brought together notable policymakers, industry experts and global stakeholders for a three-day conference and exhibition focused on innovation, challenges and sustainable growth, said PHD in a press statement.
Guest of Honour discussed how the sector supports India's constitutional principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Highlighting the transformative impact of the aviation industry, he noted that India now ranks as the third-largest domestic aviation market globally. Srivastava spoke about the critical balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability, urging stakeholders to adopt greener technologies and sustainable operational practices. He praised India’s airports for their efforts in contributing positively to the environment, with several facilities already achieving net-positive contributions.
Dr. Sharad Kumar, Member (Operations), Airports Authority of India (AAI), emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships (PPP) in driving this growth. He highlighted the significant investments of over Rs 91,000 crore channelled through PPP models since 2019 to modernize and expand airport infrastructure. These investments, Dr. Kumar said, have been pivotal in meeting growing passenger volumes and creating world-class facilities. He also stressed the need to adopt international technology transfers, particularly in air traffic management, and to develop indigenous capabilities to enhance India’s competitiveness in both civil and defence aviation.
Sanjiv Edward, Chair, PHDCCI Civil Aviation Committee, presented the government's Rs 920 billion investment plan for airport infrastructure. The plan aims to increase operational airports from 157 to 200 by 2025, with an additional 200 planned over 20 years. This initiative includes the UDAN scheme, connecting smaller cities to major hubs.
Dr. Jatinder Singh, Deputy Secretary General, PHDCCI, highlighted the conference's importance for collaboration and announced the forthcoming release of a comprehensive whitepaper.
The discussions centred on technological advancement and sustainability, including AI analytics, blockchain, and Digi Yatra biometric solutions. Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicles and drones were identified as crucial innovations for urban transport.
Miriam Schönrock, Head of Marketing, GATE, and Mr. Rocco Marcuccio, Project Coordinator, Air Tech Italy, provided international perspectives. They emphasised Indo-European collaboration and global expertise in advancing aviation technology.
The event highlighted India's progress in aviation inclusivity, particularly in gender equality within the pilot workforce. With over 50 exhibitors and 200-plus delegates, IndiAirport 2024 serves as a comprehensive platform for industry engagement, covering airport technology, ground handling, MRO innovations and sustainability.
The conference will conclude with a detailed whitepaper providing recommendations for the sector's future development, focusing on innovation, inclusivity and sustainability.The event was held on November 26 at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, New Delhi.
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